Window Sash Repairs
Check the windows sashes regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. By catching these problems early you will save money on future repairs.
The sash is the internal frame that is vertically moved either up or down in windows that are open. This article will show you how to do a variety of simple repairs to sash.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes are a great way to add a classic look to your home. They are also sturdy and last for a long time if they are properly maintained. However, they can become damaged or degraded with time due to exposure and normal wear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance for much longer than newer replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the primary thing to address when repairing windows that have sash. It is located on both the frame and sash. If it's damaged or worn out, it can lead to drafts and other problems. Begin by identifying the window's brand and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its width and height so that you can find a replacement weather stripping that matches.
Then, take it off and set it on a table so you can access all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, remove the ropes and weights that should have fallen into the pocket inside the jamb lining. Once you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to remove the old weather stripping at the corners. Then, remove it manually or with a putty knife.
Once the sash has been cleaned, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces of wood that separate the two sashes. Pam prefers to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also replace them with scrap wood.
After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to your desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife and let it dry for at least a day. When the putty is fully cured, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will protect the putty and give your sash a modern look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes can wear out over time and with use. This can result in a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. It's important to know that replacing and repair of this hardware is typically straightforward and cost-effective. If you're having trouble opening a sash spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash up and open to see if it resolves the issue. If the problem persists, it is most likely that the sash balance is off. You will need remove the window sash to get access to this part of the hardware.
Ideally, window sashes must swing open and closed without effort, but this can be a difficult task if the weights become worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This problem can be due to a variety of factors that include the lack of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.
If the hinge arms on windows begin to slide, this could cause the sash to drag and then hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To address this issue, first make sure the sash is squarely inserted into the opening of the frame and then take it out of the window. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll have to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).
Because of sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency, old windows particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to open or close. In most instances, a few easy repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation again and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.
To make these repairs to the sash, it's important to have all the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will assist you in getting the channel back on the correct position after you've finished. Then, remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that secure it. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash, and store it in a bag labeled.
Sash Weights
Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or simply to ensure that the windows are functional, replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and cut down on energy costs. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and connected to the movable sash by rope. They are counterbalancers that allows the window to be closed and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are usually ignored or disabled by homeowners.
window repair near me is difficult to recover a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits correctly. You will also need a new piece of string, a length sash cord and some sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights onto the sash cord.
Older windows made of wood are joined using mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to take out the wood pegs holding the components together. The majority of them have large diameters on one side and a smaller one on the other, which is why it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Sashes made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line using the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised section loose using mallets.
After the sash is released, you can remove the sash stops and gain access to the pockets for weights. Usually, this is done through a hole near the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inside workings.
After the sash has been stopped and the access panel is removed, you are able to remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash first because the weights you've got may not be the right size. After the new weight has been installed, thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then, you can nail the string to the boxed frame, but only leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustment.
Sash Cords
In most old double-hung window the chain or cord is connected to the weights. This keeps the sashes in the jamb balanced. As time passes, these cords can get damaged and make it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cable can restore the ability to move and lower the sash, and keep it in place when opened.
The first step in replacing sash cords is to find and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are usually screwed or nailed in and need to be removed. You could employ a hammer and chisel to remove them however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets before commencing any work.
After you have removed the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel to pry the small parting beads from their grooves. It is important to be patient, as these are often stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. The sash should move freely, however it may need some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.
Take a measurement of the length of sash cord/chain required to reach the sash slot on the bottom, and the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and then fix it using Step 6 above. You can use either a hammer, nails, or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.
It is recommended to keep the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you have purchased a kit to replace the old counterbalance. It's cheap to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they will be easy to install once you've got the sash open. Based on the dimensions and shape of your window you may require one or two sashweights to keep it open.